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Fabrizio Romano Transfer News: Man Utd manager plan, Klopp to Real Madrid, Diomande latest
Robin Bairner
- 14 Jan 2026 07:14 GMT
- 5 min read
News
A decisive week for Manchester United, major clarity at Real Madrid, and growing market interest around Europe headline the latest transfer and managerial updates from Fabrizio Romano.
Real Madrid clarify Alvaro Arbeloa role amid summer uncertainty
Arbeloa’s appointment has raised questions internally and externally about whether this is a short-term fix or a longer-term solution.
“Alvaro Arbeloa made it clear publicly that this is not about contracts or timelines,” Romano said, explaining that he told Real Madrid he is available to help the club for as long as they want after spending more than 20 years there.
“Real Madrid have not given Arbeloa any guarantees on timing. He is the manager today, and if he delivers trophies, connects with the dressing room and works well with the club, he will have the chance to continue.
“Otherwise, Real Madrid will go for a different coach in the summer, and this was explained clearly to Arbeloa when he was offered the job and immediately accepted.”
Xabi Alonso’s reaction to Real Madrid sacking
Despite the frustration around how his Madrid chapter unfolded, Alonso’s reputation remains strong across Europe.
“Xabi Alonso is disappointed with how things went at Real Madrid,” Romano revealed.
“There is a strong feeling in the industry that Xabi Alonso will attract interest from important clubs again in the next months, whether that is for summer 2026 or shortly after.
“This chapter was disappointing for everyone involved, but the internal perception of Xabi Alonso as a manager remains very positive.”
Next Real Madrid boss: Jurgen Klopp admired
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who is now head of global soccer at Red Bull, continues to be discussed behind the scenes at the Bernabeu.
“There are people inside Real Madrid who really appreciate Klopp,” Romano said.
“The first step must be Klopp deciding he wants to return to coaching. If he does that publicly, then yes, he would be an option for Real Madrid in the summer.
“At the moment Klopp remains focused on his role at Red Bull and has said clearly that the Xabi Alonso situation is not linked to him.”
Manchester United confirm Michael Carrick as interim head coach
Romano confirmed Manchester United’s interim backroom team following the sacking of Ruben Amorim.
“Man Utd have officially confirmed Michael Carrick as their new head coach until the end of the season,” Romano said.
“The backroom staff has been decided, with Darren Fletcher returning to a coaching role in the academy rather than joining Carrick’s staff, despite being offered the position.
“Carrick is very excited about the opportunity, but Manchester United will still begin the process of identifying their next permanent manager ahead of the 2026-27 season.”
Tuchel and De Zerbi remain on United’s long-term radar
INEOS are expected to take their time and explore multiple options.
Romano added: “Two names guaranteed to be considered by INEOS are Thomas Tuchel and Roberto De Zerbi.
“Tuchel is fully focused on England and the World Cup, while De Zerbi is doing an excellent job at Olympique Marseille, but both remain appreciated internally.
“This will be a long process with more names involved, and nothing is expected to happen quickly.”
Fenerbahce push for N’Golo Kante as Premier League interest lingers
World Cup winner N’Golo Kante could be on the move very soon. He is currently playing in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Ittihad.
“Fenerbahce have made important progress in talks for N’Golo Kante,” Romano revealed.
“Kante wants to play at the World Cup and is open to leaving Al-Ittihad if a suitable deal is agreed, although the Saudi club would prefer to keep him.
“Premier League clubs have made enquiries, but the salary remains a major obstacle, with Fenerbahce currently pushing hardest.”
Current ETV
N'Golo Kanté
DM, M (C)
Al-Ittihad
N'Golo Kanté
DM, M (C)
Al-Ittihad
ETV Range
€1.5M - €2.2M
RB Leipzig rule out January exit for Yan Diomande amid heavy interest
Yan Diomande continues to be linked with a €100 million move away from RB Leipzig, but Romano says the “electric” winger is unlikely to go anywhere.
“The message from Leipzig is that Diomande will not leave the club in the January window. They want to keep the winger,” Romano said. “Eventually, in the summer it’s going to be a different story. Man Utd, PSG and Bayern are sending their people to follow him. Tottenham already tried for this January window but it was not possible. There’s going to be plenty of interest in him because he’s one of the most interesting wingers in the market.
“But Leipzig was to continue with him and protect him. They think the next six months will help to drive the price higher ahead of the summer transfer window.
“If you ask me do you think Diomande will move in January, I’d say it would be complicated because Leipzig already made big money in the summer.”
Current ETV
Yan Diomande
F (L), AM (R)
RB Leipzig
Yan Diomande
F (L), AM (R)
RB Leipzig
ETV Range
€23M - €28.1M
